Scotland, Highlands & History
Scotland
A separatist sentiment and an assertion of independence has long been the hallmark of Scotland vis-à-vis its southern neighbours, this highland drive from the Wallace Monument at Stirling (where the Scots earned their first decisive victory over England in 1297) through Glencoe's massacre landscape and Jacobite country to Culloden, site of Scotland's last battle, and Inverness.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Stirling
Scotland's historic heart. The Wallace Monument marks the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge; the castle on its volcanic crag was Mary Queen of Scots' childhood home.
- Bannockburn
Robert the Bruce's 1314 victory over Edward II, the most decisive battle in Scottish history. The NTS centre has an exceptional 3D battle simulation.
- Blair Castle
A 13th-century white Highland fortress garrisoned by the Atholl Highlanders, Europe's last private army. Thirty rooms span 700 years of Scottish history.
- Glencoe
Scotland's most dramatic glen, site of the 1692 Campbell-MacDonald massacre. The Three Sisters ridges and Buachaille Etive Mor pyramid are among Britain's most iconic landscapes.
- Fort William
Gateway to Ben Nevis, Britain's highest peak at 1,345 m. The Jacobite Steam Train departs each summer morning across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig.
- Culloden
The last battle on British soil, 16 April 1746. Bonnie Prince Charlie's army was destroyed in under an hour; clan gravestones mark where each regiment fell.
- Inverness
The Highland capital on the Ness River. Loch Ness is 10 km south, Urquhart Castle ruins are excellent, and the Cairngorms stretch east.
Where to Eat
- The Old Bridge InnScottish
A cozy riverside pub in Aviemore offering traditional Scottish dishes and live folk music.
- The Clachaig InnPub
A renowned pub in Glencoe serving hearty meals and a wide selection of local ales.
- The Kitchen BrasserieModern Scottish
A contemporary restaurant in Inverness with panoramic river views and innovative Scottish cuisine.
- The Grog & GruelPub
A traditional pub in Fort William offering a range of ales and classic Scottish fare.
Things to Do
- Stirling CastleHistoric Site
A majestic fortress in Stirling with rich history and stunning views over the surrounding landscape.
- The Battle of Bannockburn ExperienceMuseum
An interactive museum in Bannockburn detailing the pivotal 1314 battle for Scottish independence.
- Ben NevisHike
The UK's highest peak near Fort William, offering challenging trails and breathtaking vistas.
- Urquhart CastleHistoric Site
Ruins of a 13th-century castle on Loch Ness, providing insights into medieval Scottish history.